The Ultimate Guide to the Phnom Penh S-21 Prison and Killing Fields Half-Day Tour

Are you planning your next vacation to the beautiful city of Phnom Penh in Cambodia? If so, you won’t want to miss out on the chance to take part in a special S-21 Prison and Killing Fields half-day tour. This tour is both educational and moving, and it brings to life the terrible history of Cambodia during the years of the Khmer Rouge. Read on to find out everything you need to know about this tour, as we walk through what you can expect and why it’s one of the best tour experiences in the city.

A Glimpse into a Tragic History: S-21 Killing Fields and Prisons Tour

The S-21 Killing Fields and Prisons Tour gives you an unforgettable glimpse into Cambodia’s dark past. From 1975 until 1979, more than two million people were killed by the brutal Khmer Rouge regime, while hundreds of thousands more died of starvation, exhaustion, and torture. This tour gives visitors the chance to not just read about this devastating time in history, but to actually experience it in person.The tour begins in central Phnom Penh, at the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum. This museum is located in what was once the city’s most notorious prison. It was here that thousands of prisoners were subjected to torture, execution, and imprisonment. Today, the prison has been turned into a museum displaying a range of photographs and artifacts from this terrible period in history. From here, the tour bus will take you to Choeung Ek. This was once the site of a former Chinese cemetery, but it was also once home to one of Cambodia’s most notorious prisons and killing fields. Here, you’ll hear tales of both horror and hope, as you learn about how prisoners were moved here to be executed and buried. The tour guides here are incredibly knowledgeable, and they have a variety of interesting stories to tell about the people who survived this ordeal.

An Emotional Experience: What to Expect From the Tour

The S-21 Killing Fields and Prisons Tour is an incredibly emotional experience. During the tour, you’ll be guided around both S-21 prison and Choeung Ek killing fields, as well as being given time to reflect on what happened here during the Khmer Rouge regime. You’ll hear stories of prisoners who managed to survive despite incredible odds, as well as stories of life under the violent rule of the Khmer Rouge. This is an essential part of Cambodia’s cultural heritage and history, and it makes for a truly unique tour experience.

What You Need to Know: What’s Included in the Tour

The S-21 Killing Fields and Prisons Tour is a half-day experience. The tour usually begins at around 9am and concludes at 1 pm. In terms of what’s included in the tour, visitors will be able to explore both S-21 prison and Choeung Ek killing fields as well as receiving a guided tour from an experienced English-speaking guide. The tour also includes entrance fees for both locations.

What You Need to Know: What You Should Bring

When taking part in this tour, it’s important to be prepared for what lies ahead. The tour can be emotionally intense, so it’s important to bring appropriate clothing for both S-21 prison and Choeung Ek killing fields. Visitors should also be aware that these locations can get quite warm during the day, so it’s a good idea to bring some water with you.

Our Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

Taking part in this half-day tour is an emotionally intense experience that will stay with you long after you return home. The tour guides are highly knowledgeable and passionate about their work, while both S-21 prison and Choeung Ek killing fields offer insight into one of Cambodia’s darkest chapters. It’s not an easy tour, but it’s certainly an unforgettable one that is well worth considering if you are staying in Phnom Penh for your vacation.So if you’re looking for an unforgettable and educational way to experience one of Cambodia’s most tragic periods of history, look no further than a half-day S-21 Prison and Killing Fields Tour in Phnom Penh. To book your own tour, visit GetYourGuide, where you can book your experience easily and securely.

The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Phnom Penh like a Local

If you’re visiting Phnom Penh, you’ll undoubtedly hear about the most popular tourist attractions, like the Royal Palace and the National Museum. But as a local, I can tell you that there’s so much more to this city than just its well-known sites. Here are my top recommendations for experiencing Phnom Penh off the beaten path.

Hidden Gems

Phnom Penh is a city full of hidden gems that few tourists know about. One of my favorites is the Russian Market. Here, you can find everything from local handicrafts to vintage clothing. Another must-visit spot is Wat Langka, a serene Buddhist temple tucked away in a quiet residential area. And if you’re looking for a unique shopping experience, check out Daughters of Cambodia, a social enterprise that empowers women who have been victims of human trafficking to earn a living by crafting beautiful handbags and accessories.

Delicious Dining

One of the best things about Phnom Penh is the abundance of delicious food. Of course, you have to try the local cuisine, like amok and kuy teav, but I also recommend checking out some of the city’s street food stalls. There’s nothing quite like enjoying a bowl of freshly made noodles or a skewer of grilled meat while sitting on a tiny plastic stool. For a more upscale dining experience, try Romdeng, a restaurant run by an NGO that employs at-risk youth and serves up traditional Cambodian dishes with a modern twist.

Cultural Experiences

To really get a sense of Cambodian culture, I suggest attending a traditional dance performance. The Cambodia Living Arts organization puts on regular shows that showcase classical Khmer dance as well as contemporary pieces. If you’re interested in art, make sure to visit the Nhek Dim art gallery, where you can see works by up-and-coming Cambodian artists. And for a truly immersive cultural experience, consider taking a cooking class where you can learn how to make some of the most popular Khmer dishes.

Fascinating History

Of course, no visit to Phnom Penh would be complete without learning about the country’s dark past. Rather than just visiting the well-known S-21 Prison and Killing Fields, I recommend taking a tour with an experienced guide who can provide more context and answer your questions. For a different perspective on Cambodian history, visit the Independence Monument and learn about the country’s struggle for independence from France.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Tips

If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, I suggest taking a tuk-tuk ride to Toul Tom Poung, also known as the Russian Market area. Here, you can find hidden speakeasies and rooftop bars that offer stunning views of the city. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, take a day trip to Bokor Hill Station, a former French colonial retreat that’s now abandoned and eerie. And for a more peaceful outing, visit the Oudong Mountain temple complex, where you can hike through lush forests and see ancient shrines and pagodas.

Phnom Penh is a truly fascinating city with so much to offer beyond the tourist trail. I hope this insider’s guide helps you experience all that it has to offer, and more!